Feb 05 2010
Aging People More Prone to Hemorrhoids But Can Still Avoid It
Aging brings so many changes in life in terms of emotional and social changes. And of course, this is also linked to many health problems. While you feel healthy and fit in your younger years, you may never know what problems or disabilities will affect you as you reach 50.
There is no doubt that the body will slow down and your body is no longer at its prime. Gradually, you will feel the effects of aging. Muscles may stiffen, hair may deteriorate and wrinkles are obvious. However, aging is not a stage of life that one should be afraid of. There are now so many technological developments in medicines in terms of health and diet specifically for senior citizens that would help them regain energy and enjoy this new phase in their life.
But no matter how older people prevent health diseases caused by aging, the inevitable still happens. This is because they have limited regenerative abilities and more prone to disease, syndromes and sickness. One of the conditions that older people can suffer is hemorrhoid. This occurs when the veins in the rectal area or near the anus is swollen or irritated. Actually, aging is not the direct cause of hemorrhoids but as one grows older, there are certain factors that can lead to hemorrhoids.
Since aging affects the mobility of the person, the body becomes more sedentary hence the blood flow to the lower part of the body may be compromised and would therefore risk the chances of acquiring hemorrhoids. Constipation is also another factor for older people so they need to avoid swelling and irritation. The pain and the inflammation of the rectal tissues associated with hemorrhoids can still be alleviated by proper food intake and few lifestyle changes. Also, aging weakens the anal sphincter muscles and the ability to pass the feces.
Older people still need to look after what they eat in order to prevent the swollen perianal area. Fiber-rich foods such as fruits, leafy vegetables and whole grains are needed in the daily diet. Insoluble fiber has also been credited with the overall health of the bowel and has been linked to preventing bowel cancer. Also, age weakens the anal sphincter muscles and the ability to pass the feces. This is one of the reasons why some people become dependent on the use of laxatives.
Drinking plenty of water can prevent dehydration. Take note, that drinking water can soften the stool. And depending on the health condition, older people still need to maintain an active lifestyle. A short walk everyday can still do wonders to the health. However, you need to consult a doctor before doing any strenuous activity.
Once you experience any inflammation of the anal tissues, there are now many measures on how you can lessen the pain and discomfort. It is advisable that you take warm baths soaking the affected area and a gentle drying pat-down. Hemorrhoid creams can also be a good resort of older people who experience hemorrhoids. But to those who suffer bleeding, you need to take caution with any treatments and consult your doctor first.
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